Dorothy Nell Kerns

Surrounded by family and friends, Dorothy Kerns passed from this life at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, May 1st, in San Angelo, Texas. Services have been set for Mrs. Kerns at the First Baptist Church of Menard at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, May 5 with Milton Tyler officiating. Family Visitation will be Sunday evening at Heritage Funeral Home Chapel from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Interment will be at the family cemetery in Mason, Texas. Dorothy was a well-known resident and civic leader in Menard since 1970. She moved to this community in that year to begin work at The Menard News and that career lasted until her retirement as Editor in April 2009. As Editor, she managed the bulk of writing duties and was best known for penning the By The Way column. In 1985, under her editorship, The Menard News was presented the Citizen of the Year award by the Menard Chamber of Commerce. Dorothy was active in the community and has served on numerous boards and committees. This included her service on the City council and on the MISD board of Trustees for sixteen years. She was a director on the Menard Appraisal District Board and involved in school events and 4-H while her sons were in school. Dorothy served as Chairperson of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life for Menard County for 3 consecutive years. The American Cancer Society also paid a special recognition to Dorothy for an article on cancer awareness. Dorothy had several hobbies that include being an avid reader and writer and in most recent years added Bridge playing. Dorothy's love for books afforded her the opportunity to volunteer at the Menard Library. Dorothy loved family and highly anticipated the family reunion and summer camping excursions with family. Her experiences included many travels with family and close friends. Dorothy was born May 13, 1939 in Mason to Ruthie Mae and E.E. (Bud) Keith. Her survivors include all four of her sons and grandchildren, Steve and Linda of Haskell and Matthew and Mark their sons; Scott and Jodi of Roanoke and family Erin , Savon, LaSaebra and Lauryn; Don and wife Stephanie of Booker and family Ryan, Amber, Christina, and Allan; and David of Crowell and family, Shelby, Daulton and Amiafaith. In addition to her sons, Dorothy was survived by her sister, Gloria and husband Bob Blackard of Junction and her brother Curtis Keith and wife Evelyn of San Angelo. Dorothy left behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends. She was preceded in death by her parents. Memorials: Menard Public Library, P.O. Box 404, Menard, TX 76859 or charity of choice.

Dorothy Nell Kerns

May 13, 1939 - May 1, 2014